"Raven," Mrs. Sterling said, "We didn't know you were here."
"I was just on my way-"
"We've been meaning to talk to you," she said, "now that you've heard about the Mansion going on the market,"
I didn't move.
"I know it must be hard for you, Raven-as it is for us," Mrs. Sterling said in a soothing voice.
I nodded.
"You have done so much for Alexander," she continued. "I know it will be difficult for him being away from you. So you must promise me you'll visit."
Under normal conditions, the thought of going toRomania and seeing Alexander's family would be the thrill of a lifetime. However, if I had a choice, I'd rather vacation inRomania and visit my boyfriend on Benson Hill.
"I promise," I said in agreement.
Alexander appeared at the foot of the stairs.
"What's going on down here?"
"Nothing," Mrs. Sterling said. "We were just passing in the hall."
***
I felt a tinge of sorrow for theSterlings . They were just as torn as we were about the move. They were making what they thought was the best decision, even if it wasn't the choice Alexander and I would make.
I couldn't concentrate on writing, and Alexander needed a break from painting. It was getting late, so he drove me home.
"I think our plan is working," I said as he walked me to my door. "At this rate, you'll be here longer than the Mansion has,"
Alexander leaned in and gave me a blissful kiss. For the first night in a long time, I actually got a good night's rest.
Chapter 25 Ghastly Interview
Unfortunately the next guy's face I had to see was Trevor's.
"We haven't answered everything," my nemesis said, finding me on the lawn after school.
"I think you can fill in the blanks," I replied.
"I can give you a lift home. We could do it in the car."
I glared back.
"I mean the assignment," Trevor said, raising an eyebrow.
"I'd rather walk."
"When are you going to admit that you are avoiding me because you're hot for me?"
"When hell freezes over."
"You should know about hell-you live there. How about you step up to the plate and finish the job?" Trevor challenged.
I thought for a moment. I was slightly taken with the idea of having my owngoth fashion magazine like Becky and I had discussed, but I couldn't possibly share that with Trevor. I'd only be ridiculed. Instead I said, "Okay, Soccer Boy. Figure out a career for me. Something that will make me money so I can be self-reliant."
Trevor opened his notebook. I could see several typed pages of his essay were already complete.